In general, your immune system does an excellent job fending off disease-causing microorganisms that can make you sick. When your body senses that antigens are present, your immune system makes antibodies with proteins that block specific dangers. After they are made, these antibodies usually stay in your body for some time if you have to fight off the same antigen again. This is why conditions such as chickenpox usually occur only once with most people.
Occasionally, your immune system fails, and a germ successfully invades your body. When an antigen can evade your immune system, you usually get sick. When you get sick, it doesn’t mean that your immune system has failed. However, it means that the germ was able to get around your natural defenses. If you notice that you are getting sicker more often, it could mean that your immune system needs a little support. Throughout history, people have sought to intervene in the immune processes in their bodies. From medications and routines to special diets, there are many ways that people try to boost their systems. Let’s take a look at ways that you might be able to support your immune system.
Vitamins and Supplements
Certain vitamins and minerals are thought to help with immune function. Immune support vitamins and supplements boost helpful substances such as zinc, vitamin D, elderberry, and vitamin C derived from fruits, vegetables, and herbs. In addition to the possible benefits of a healthy immune system, many of these supplements can provide antioxidants and nutrients that reduce inflammation and provide other healthy lifestyle benefits. Immune support supplements can help with your body’s natural defenses against germs and viruses that can make you sick.
Diet
Food is one of your best sources of nutrients that are needed for a healthy immune response. The government’s “MyPlate” recommendations for fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein is an excellent guide for suggested nutrients. There is some evidence that deficiencies in iron, copper, folic acid, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and others can alter your immune response. This is why it is important to ensure that your diet provides you with all of the nutrients that your body needs for healthy immune function and support.
Stress
Doctors have long understood the link between stress and your health. A wide variety of illnesses such as upset stomach, hives, and even high blood pressure and heart disease can be traced to effects of emotional stress. Additionally, many scientists believe that stress can interfere with healthy immune function. To manage your stress, you need to ensure that you are getting enough sleep, practicing relaxation techniques, and exercising. Finding ways to reduce your stress can play an important role in your immune health.
Behavior
Your immune system is like a well-trained army regiment that can respond to fight off foreign germs in an instant. To assist your body in this vital process, there are some things that you can do to ensure that you don’t interfere with immune function. As we all have learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, routine handwashing has numerous beneficial effects. This process cleans your hands and helps germs from making their way into your body. Additionally, you can avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol and smoking to help improve your immune system and overall health.
Aside from making healthy choices and washing your hands, there is another step that you can take to aid your immune system in fighting off viruses and other illnesses. Keeping up with your annual vaccinations will help provide your immune system with antibodies that it can use to build a defense. It is recommended that everyone older than six months receive an annual flu shot. Other vaccinations can protect you against pneumonia, chickenpox, hepatitis, COVID-19, and many other illnesses.
Your immune system is your most important tool in fighting off germs and preventing illness. It is important that you avoid stress, maintain a healthy diet, wash your hands, and consider supplements to help boost your immune health.